Option to Create Virtual Private Network Connection is Grayed Out

Posted on Nov 19, 2007 under Windows Tips, Windows XP Tips |

The option to create a virtual private network connection is disabled or grayed out in Windows 2000 or Windows XP when creating a new connection.

This problem usually occurs because the Remote Access Connection Manager service is not running. To fix this problem, perform the following steps:

1. Right click on your MY COMPUTER icon and select MANAGE.

2. Click on the plus sign next to SERVICES AND APPLICATIONS.

3. Double-clcik REMOTE ACCESS CONNECTION MANAGER.

4. For the box that says STARTUP TYPE select AUTOMATIC.

5. Click on the START button under SERVICE STATUS and click OK.

6. You should now have the option to create a virtual private network connection the next time you setup a connection.

5 Comments so far »

by Murilo Alan Koprovski, on April 5 2008 @ 2:13 am

Thank’s a lot for your tips.
by Kaarthik, on April 15 2008 @ 1:15 am

Had the same problem after uninstalling Symantec Anti Virus.

Tried to start RAS myself, but would not allow me. Got the Access denied Error.

Actual problem was with the registry entries. Somehow Symantec messed it all up:

This is what I did:

1. Regedit

2. Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\RasMan\PPP\EAP

3. Delete 25, 26, and 13 entries

4. Restart system.

HTH
by Frank, on July 22 2008 @ 9:06 am

Good tip. it worked. thanks
by gabe, on October 8 2008 @ 12:33 pm

Worked, thanks!
by ElTorqiro, on November 9 2008 @ 1:05 am

Note that the Remote Access Connection Manager service depends on the Telephony service, so that needs to be started as well.